Description
Allium cernuum and Allium canadense are good examples of the many species of wild onions and garlics. They are recognized easily by their distinctive onion or garlic odor respectively. The main leaves are straight and grass-like or slightly coiled. The star-shaped flowers of wild onions can be white or reddish pink. It has round black or brown seeds.
Where To Find
Wild onions are found worldwide. They thrive in sunny, open areas with well drained soils.
What And How To Eat
The edible parts are the bulbs and young leaves. They can be eaten raw or cooked and usually used as seasoning.
Warning: There are many poisonous plants with onion-like bulbs. Ensure the plant you are harvesting has the distinctive onion or garlic odor.
Medicinal Use
When added to the diet, wild onions act as tonic and help to reduce blood cholesterol levels. Raw wild garlic root can be eaten to ease shortness of breath and reduce blood pressure. A tincture of wild garlic is used as a remedy for croup in children, and also to prevent colic and worms.